Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Canberra Pt. 2 - Museums, Market and the Mint

Bryce and Liam ham it up at the Mint

Our plan Sunday morning was to check out the markets at the Old Bus Depot. Since they didn't open until 10:00 (and we have children who don't sleep in) - we made a stop first at the Australian War Memorial to have a look around. 

We had a cuppa and a muffin at Poppy's Cafe nearby and since it was also opening at 10:00 - we decided to go in and have a look around. We ended up spending over an hour checking out all of the amazing exhibits. A powerful experience!



















Simpson and his donkey

A beautiful view from the War Memorial down Anzac Parade towards Parliament









Inside the main entrance of the War Memorial towards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier











The ceiling in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier







We walked around the different halls of the War Memorial to learn more about Australian war history. 







The world's first tank ("Mephisto" - German)





After a sombre and reflective experience at the Australian War Memorial and Museum - we headed to the Old Bus Depot Markets to check out the goods.



We continued on to the nearby Jerrabomberra Wetlands to have a look for the elusive platypus. 


Even though it was a little late in the day...we definitely had some excitement and may have even captured a platypus on film - you be the judge!


Could have been a water rat - but we're pretty sure that we the head with a duck-bill (not a rat face).
Did you spot the 2 cool birds, too? The black swan nesting was amazing.



These viewing stations were positioned all around the walking trail to see wildlife in a quiet and protected setting.








We had some close encounters with kangaroos lounging by the water too!







Can you see him? (a big roo hiding in the long grass...)





Just before leaving Canberra for our drive home, we stopped in at the Royal Australian Mint to check out how money is made.









These steps are made of coins!




Sydney 2000 Olympic Medals





Even square "Kookaburra" pennnies

As we were leaving Canberra, we spotted the Canadian Embassy and had to pull over to snap some pics of our true north strong in free (in Australia!)





A few hours later, dinner was the pub in Kangaroo Valley - and this amazing red sky!



Thanks for an amazing weekend, Canberra!